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Paul Scholes announces retirement

Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has announced that he is to retire from football at the end of the season.

The 38-year-old ex-England international is likely to feature in United's two last games against Swansea and West Brom but will then call time on his career.

Scholes told the club's official website: "Yes, I am finally hanging up my boots for good! Playing football is all I have ever wanted to do, and so to have had such a long and successful career at Manchester United, under the greatest manager of all time, has been an honour.

"The team has the right balance and will continue to thrive under the leadership of David Moyes."

Boss Alex Ferguson added: "Paul is a truly unbelievable player. He has always been fully committed to this club and it has been a real privilege to work with him for so many years. Paul will play at Old Trafford on Sunday against Swansea and will collect an unbelievable but well-deserved 11th Premier League medal."

Teammate Rio Ferdinand also paid tribute, posting on Twitter: "Scholes retiring at the end of the season ...1 of the best I played alongside also the most naturally-gifted player too."

It will be the second time that Scholes has announced his retirement, with the first coming in May 2011. He reversed this decision in January 2012 and went on to play a role in Ferguson's squad as they regained the title from rivals Manchester City.

Scholes has made 716 appearances for United during his time at Old Trafford.